Steven Back, a Hungarian designer who has called Shanghai home for 18 years, sees 2023 as a turning point for cross-cultural collaboration. His 2022 experience—marked by family bonding, community engagement, and volunteering—reflects the resilience of global citizens adapting to changing times.
'I wanted to give back to the city that’s given me so much,' Back said, describing his work with local volunteer initiatives. His efforts to connect with neighbors and support pandemic-era community programs underscore the growing role of grassroots diplomacy in international relations.
Now setting his sights on 2023, Back plans to leverage his bicultural expertise to strengthen China-Hungary relations through art and design exchanges. 'Cultural understanding starts with personal connections,' he emphasized, noting Hungary’s status as a key European partner in China’s Belt and Road Initiative.
Back’s optimism aligns with projections of economic revitalization across G20 nations, as pandemic recovery accelerates global mobility and trade. His story exemplifies how individual action can foster cross-border cooperation—a narrative resonating with digitally connected young professionals seeking purpose-driven international engagement.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
